Zoophoria!

The Story of the Modern Conservation Zoological Park as Told by its Leaders

"As a past interviewee for Zoophoria, I believe it to be a very valuable and factual documentation of the passion and commitment of the many fine people that are involved in zoo-based conservation. Over the past 20-30 years, accredited zoological parks have undergone a transformation from historical menageries to active participants in the global conservation community. Zoophoria is a great testimonial to this conservation revolution."

Rick Barongi

Former Director, Houston Zoo

Jambo Topeka: A Conversation with Gary Clarke, Retired Director of the Topeka Zoo

Gary Clarke is often credited as being one of the first modern zoo directors in American zoo history. He directed the Topeka Zoo from 1963 to 1989. During that time, he developed a number of groundbreaking exhibits and innovative practices. Among Clarke’s achievements were being the first president of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums after its independence from the National Recreation and Park Association and creating the zoo world’s first indoor tropical rainforest buil

Celebrating Watershed Heroes: A Conversation with Gretchen Ziegler, Director of the Sequoia Park Zoo

Sitting on five acres in Eureka, California, the Sequoia Park Zoo is one of the smallest zoos in the AZA as well as the oldest zoo in California. Nevertheless the Zoo is determined to do the best they can with the limited space and resources they have. The zoo had a major breakthrough when it won the AZA Exhibit Top Honors award for zoos with an operating budget under $5 million for Watershed Heroes. This immersive exhibit shows the importance of the watershed ecosystem throu